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Storyline

U. S. Navy Lieutenant Gregg Masterman (Robert Taylor), of THE Harvard and Boston Back Bay Mastermans, learned about the sea while winning silver cups sailing his yacht. He climbs swiftly in rank, and is now Junior Aide to Rear Admiral Stephen Thomas (Charles Laughton). In contrast,Lieutenant Commander Martin J. Roberts (Brian Donlevy), enlisted in World War I, and worked his way up gradually. He retired in 1935 but has been recalled as Executive Officer of the destroyer "Cranshaw." Impressed by Roberts' vigor, the rear admiral raises him to command of the destroyer "Warren,", an over-age World War I ship that has been recommissioned. Master laughs at Roberts' new command, only to have the Admiral assign him as the Executive Officer of the "Warren," under Roberts. The ship is to join a convoy which has already left Hawaii, bound for the United States. The Flagship of the convoy is the cruiser, "Chattanooga,' with Admiral Thomas in command. On the way, a lifeboat is sighted. From it are... Written by
Les Adams <longhorn1939@suddenlink.net>

Technical Specs

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Did You Know?

Trivia

The world premiere on 31 December 1942 took place simultaneously in 7 US cities: Boston, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island; Washington, D.C.; Chicago, Illinois; Norfolk, Virginia; San Diego, California and San Francisco, California. Some earlier screenings may have taken place for naval officers on Treasure Island, California and Mare Island, California. See more »

Goofs

Members of the cast almost always say, "Yes, sir," in response to orders, etc.; Naval personnel say, "Aye, aye, sir." See more »

User Reviews

This is a gentle comedy wherein a Lieutenant fresh from University (Taylor) sees his first action as second in command under gruff but human Lt. Commander (Donleavy) on a recommissioned WWI vessel setting out in convoy against the Japanese following the attack on Pearl Harbor. There is good old Walter Brennan delivering an effective and sentimental supporting performance and a lifeboat full of babies to rescue. The Oscar-nominated special effects are good but not outstanding - mainly involving the unlikely old vessel maneuvering to torpedo a Japanese destroyer. What is great fun is watching Charles Laughton steal the film away from everyone else with his crotchety, caring turn as Rear Admiral Thomas. He is a delight to watch, seemingly improving at every moment but we know every twitch, every frown, every hand gesture is calculated to look fresh. An enjoyable, easy-going film that's very easy to watch.

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